Community Court, an innovative program of the Kirkland Municipal Court, promotes public safety and improves the quality of lives. Like Mental Health Courts and Drug Courts across the nation, Community Courts are problem-solving courts that blend accountability and compassion. These courts move beyond incarceration and other punitive actions to promote safety. So, how is this done? They identify and address the underlying quality of life issues that can contribute to the on-going criminal behavior of defendants who commit low level misdemeanor offenses.
Often, individuals who commit misdemeanor crimes are dealing with life challenges such as poverty, addiction, mental illness, limited job skills, inadequate education, and homelessness. Without assistance to surmount these conditions by developing skills, recovering from an illness, and/or stabilizing their living situation, they are very likely to continue to commit crimes and revolve in and out of jail.
Community Courts, in partnership with Community Resource Centers, help individuals who want to improve their lives and get the assistance they need. Instead of receiving a fine or incarceration, they contract with the Kirkland Municipal Court to comply with a service plan that helps them resolve some of their critical life challenges. For example, the service plan may require a mental health assessment and starting treatment, getting a GED and exploring employment training programs, getting health insurance, and/or finding safe housing they can afford. If the court participants comply with the terms of the contract, including the service plan, then their case is dismissed with prejudice. And… they have a chance to begin living their lives anew.